This Tree of Life painting by aboriginal artist Blake Debassige hangs in the chapel of the Anderson Lake Spiritual Centre in Northern Ontario. The centre is run by the Jesuits for the benefit of aboriginal peoples in the area, but I have spent time on retreat there. The simple, beautiful chapel is "in the round" and there are symbols which reflect native spirituality and Christianity. In this painting Christ is nailed to a tree with the creatures of the forest perched on the branches. Each one has meaning for the artist. I find this painting inspiring and have a copy of it.
June 21st, the summer solstice, is National Aboriginal Day in Canada http://www.ceiu-seic.ca/page_2049.cfm Our wonderful country has a sad history of mistreatment of First Nations peoples and the churches are not exempt. The United Church of Canada has attempted to restore that broken relationship through a public apology, a healing fund, and reparations to those who were abused in the residential school system. We have established a conference among the 13 of the United Church called All Native Circle.
While these efforts are probably not enough, they are a beginning. Jesus had a special heart for those who were marginalized in his time and that desire for justice can be at the heart of our concern for the more than 500,000 aboriginals in Canada. Read the Apology to Native Congregations made by the United Church in 1986 http://www.united-church.ca/beliefs/policies/1986/a651
We are holding a Prayer Vigil on the First Nations Day of Action, Friday, June 29th.
ReplyDeleteIt is the best way churches can stand in solidarity with First Nations at this time. And thay have called upon all Canadians to stand with them. It is a good way to uphold our "Apology" as well.
Is anyone else doing anything?
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P.S. David, we reluctantly send
Rev. C. R. to you...with our love she goes. I know you will accept her in the same spirit in which we have released her. All the best in your continuing work together.
We have begun 4 JNAC's. We are also okay, by the way! But, your continued prayers are always welcome.
Thanks for letting me know what will be happening on Friday. I sense that the relationship with the Native community has a higher profile in Northern Ontario. While there are reserves and communities in the south, people don't pay attention to the issues in the same way.
ReplyDeleteThanks too for confirming our decision about C.R. We all feel she will contribute greatly to our ministry.